1
Core meaning
A person with whom one works, especially in the same profession, field, or organization.
Example
She discussed the result with a colleague.
colleague
/ˈkɒliːɡ/ · KOL-eegnoun
A person with whom one works, especially in the same profession, field, or organization.
Use colleague to express this relationship precisely: a person with whom one works, especially in the same profession, field, or organization.
What colleague Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Common noun frame
Use this noun in a complete noun phrase, adding the complement that identifies what it refers to when needed.
Example
Former colleagues collaborated on the new study.
3
Analytical distinction
Choose it when this exact concept matters; a related term may describe its cause, evidence, or opposite instead.
Example
A colleague reviewed the manuscript before submission.
Use colleague Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
She discussed the result with a colleague.
Former colleagues collaborated on the new study.
A colleague reviewed the manuscript before submission.
Precision Matters
Colleague overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
colleague
vs.Means a person with whom one works, especially in the same profession, field, or organization.
adversary
Means an opponent, rival, or enemy in a conflict, contest, debate, or struggle.
colleague
vs.Means a person with whom one works, especially in the same profession, field, or organization.
compatriot
Means a person from the same country as another person.
colleague
vs.Means a person with whom one works, especially in the same profession, field, or organization.
benefactor
Means a person who provides help, money, or another substantial benefit to a person or institution.
colleague
vs.Means a person with whom one works, especially in the same profession, field, or organization.
interlocutor
Means a person who takes part in a conversation, dialogue, interview, or formal discussion.
Test colleague in Context
The person works with her in the same profession and organization.
1
The physician asked a ___ in the same department for a second opinion.